2021 THOMPSON PR

SATURDAY, APRIL 10th, 2021












*Photos by Norm Marx*



*Photos by Mike Rothwell*

Griffith Dominates at Icebreaker
to Remain Perfect on PASS Season
Rocco, Santos, and Newcomb Among
Winners in Icebreaker Afternoon Session

Thompson, CT -- Hudson, NH's Derek Griffith went wire-to-wire to capture the Pro All Stars Series (PASS) Thompson 75 at the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10. Griffith grabbed the lead in the first corner and was on a rail from there, claiming victory in the headliner for the afternoon session of the 82nd Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park season opener.

Griffith's win kept the young star perfect on the PASS Super Late Model season. He captured both PASS National Easter Bunny 150 events at North Carolina's Hickory Motor Speedway the previous weekend. Now Griffith also has a win in the PASS North championship opener.

It took less than 500 feet for Griffith to get to the front at Thompson. He started second after winning the second qualifying heat, and when polesitter Ben Rowe had trouble coming up to speed, Griffith and several others shot past.

The only thing that could slow Griffith was the race's lone caution on lap 3 when Garrett Hall tagged the backstretch wall. When the field went green again, Griffith put the hammer down. Rowley, MA's Eddie "The Outlaw" MacDonald gave chase as best he could, and could narrow the gap some in traffic, but Griffith restored his margin every time they got clear.

Even as multiple other drivers had strong runs go sour in the unseasonable warm weather, Griffith never wavered. He ultimately put more than half the field a lap down and cruised to an impressive win.

"I love it here," Griffith said after the race. "I tell people all the time about how cool the Icebreaker is and how big of a weekend it is. You know we travel everywhere and not everybody understands how big of a weekend it is -- and not just for PASS...so to come get another (win) here is pretty cool. It's definitely one to mark off."

MacDonald finished second with Center Conway, NH's Gabe Brown a comfortable third. Rowe recovered from his early troubles and held off Rowland Robinson Jr. for fourth. Reigning PASS North champion D.J. Shaw, Johnny Clark, Corey Casagrande, Mike Scorzelli, and Dan Winter rounded out the top-10.

SUPER LATE MODELS at THOMPSON
UNOFFICIAL RACE RESULTS - 4-10-21

1) 12g - Derek Griffith - 75 Laps
2) 17ma - Eddie MacDonald - 75
3) 47 - Gabe Brown - 75
4) 4 - Ben Rowe - 75
5) 20 - Rowland Robinson Jr. - 75
6) 60 - DJ Shaw - 75
7) 54 - Johnny Clark - 75
8) 7ct - Cory Casagrande - 75
9) 18 - Mike Scorzelli - 75
10) 81 - Dan Winter - 74
11) 21 - Shane Clark - 74 12) 52 - Jake Matheson - 74
13) 14c - Anthony Constantino - 74
14) 48 - Keith Rocco - 74
15) 10 - Kate Re - 74
16) 17x - Brandon Turbush - 71
17) 17 - Kevin Folan - 68
18) 88 - Brandon Barker - 62
19) 43 - Devin O'Connell - 42
20) 15ma - Jake Johnson - 31
21) 94 - Garrett Hall - 2

PASS SUPER LATE MODELS 75 ENTRY LIST - 4/10

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Berlin, CT's Keith Rocco outdueled Mike Cristopher Jr. to win
the Sunoco Modified Icebreaker feature. (Tom Morris photo)

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Berlin, CT's Keith Rocco came out on top of a barnburner to win the Sunoco Modified season opener. Rocco started fourth in the 30-lap main event and took the lead from Oxford, MA's Troy Talman on a lap-9 restart after Christian Turissi's spin.

Wolcott, CT's Mike Christopher moved into the runner-up spot following the second caution on lap 13. Rocco and Christopher pulled away from the field nose-to-tail for several laps, but with seven to go, the real battle began. Christopher dove inside Rocco entering turn 3, the first of what would be six passes in as many laps. Rocco, however, kept putting his Modified out front at the start/finish line where it counted.

As the duo got the two-to-go signal, Christopher finally had the lead by a nose at the line and cleared Rocco entered turn one. Rocco went back underneath him in the third turn, and the two banged nerf bars. Christopher slid up the track, allowing Rocco to get away for another victory in his dominating Thompson Speedway career.

Talman and Todd Owen also got past Christopher thanks to the late contact, finishing second and third in the final rundown. Christopher had to settle for fourth. Danny Cates, Jonathan Puleo, John Lowinski-Loh, Richard Williams, Jason Sundeen, and Paul LaPlante completed the top-10.
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Franklin, MA's Bobby Santos (center, with Bobby & Matt Seymour)
ran down Jim Santa Maria to win the NEMA LITES feature.
(John DaDalt photo)

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Franklin, MA's Bobby Santos III kicked off his Icebreaker weekend with a victory in the 25-lap NEMA LITES Midgets feature. Santos started seventh in the Matt and Bob Seymour-owned #1, and after a slow start, began him march to the front. He inherited the second spot on lap 13 when Dan Cugini's Midget shut down, then caught leader Jim Santa Maria with eight laps to go.

One lap later, Santos drove beneath Santa Maria on the front stretch and cleared him entering turn 1. It was no contest from there as Santos sailed to the victory.

Santa Maria came in second followed by Jake Trainor. Kyle Valeri, Randy Cabral, Richie Coy, Christopher Vose, Tiana Kibbe, Dennis O'Brien, and Cugini fourth through 10th.
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Plymouth, MA's Paul Newcomb celebrates his victory in the
Icebreaker Street Stock Open. (Tom Morris photo)

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Plymouth, MA Paul Newcomb ended a frenetic two days on a high note by winning the 25-lap Street Stock Open feature. Newcomb started fourth and found an opening early, muscling beneath polesitter Ryan Waterman in turn four to take the lead after two laps.

Candia, NH's Jimmy Renfrew Jr. was the only driver who could even come close to hanging with Newcomb on the ensuing green-flag run. Renfrew got a shot on a restart with eight laps to go after Zachary Mead's spin. But the #00 got loose exiting turn four the following lap. Renfrew eventually slid back to fourth as Newcomb marched to the victory.

Waterman finished second with Kyle Gero third. Joe Kohler, Wayne Coury, Bobby Segar Jr., Devin McConologue, Justin Travis, and Nick Hovey also earned top-10 finishes.

Freeport, NY's Gerard Giordano Jr. won a photo finish over Warwick, RI's Ryan Vanasse in the 35-lap EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge feature. Vanasse had pulled away in the middle stages of the event, but Giordano had the better long-run truck and ran him down with seven laps to go. The fourth and final caution came out soon after, setting up a four-lap dash to the finish.

Vanasse initially cleared Giordano on the restart. With two laps to go, though, Giordano ducked back inside. Entered turn for the final time, the duo touched and got sideways. After gathering it up, they banged doors again coming to the line. It was Giordano, the former series champion, edging Vanasse by 0.015 seconds for the win.

Waterford, CT's Emma Monahan had a strong run for third. Duane Noll, Connor Souza, Joe Arena, Andy Lindeman, Todd Taylor, Joseph Coates, and Randy Coates opened their season with top-10 finishes.

Sterling, CT's Jared Roy continued his domination of the Thompson Mini Stocks with a victory in their 15-lap feature. Roy came from seventh on the starting grid to run down Steven Michalski at the halfway mark. After ducking inside Michalski as the leaders completed lap nine, Roy completed the pass entering turn one a circuit later.

Coming out of turn four the next time around, Michalski broke loose and spun to bring out the race's only caution. Roy had a rear-view mirror full of Gales Ferry, CT's Thomas Silva over the final four laps, but held on for the victory. Dave Trudeau, Douglas Curry, and Charles Canfield completed the top-five.

THOMPSON SPEEDWAY MOTORSPORTS PARK
THOMPSON ICEBREAKER -- AFTERNOON SESSION
SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2021
UNOFFICIAL RESULTS

PASS SUPER LATE MODELS
Pos., Start Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown, Laps
1. ( 2 ) Derek Griffith ( 12G ) Hudson, NH , 75 Laps
2. ( 3 ) Eddie MacDonald ( 17MA ) Rowley, MA , 75 Laps
3. ( 4 ) Gabe Brown ( 47 ) Ctr. Conway, NH , 75 Laps
4. ( 1 ) Ben Rowe ( 4 ) Turner, ME , 75 Laps
5. ( 8 ) Rowland Robinson Jr. ( 20 ) Steuben, ME , 75 Laps
6. ( 6 ) D.J. Shaw ( 60 ) Ctr. Conway, NH , 75 Laps
7. ( 5 ) Johnny Clark ( 54 ) Hallowell, ME , 75 Laps
8. ( 14 ) Cory Casagrande ( 7CT ) Stafford Springs, CT , 75 Laps
9. ( 12 ) Mike Scorzelli ( 18 ) Feura Bush, NY , 75 Laps
10. ( 19 ) Dan Winter ( 81 ) Deerfield, NH , 74 Laps
11. ( 16 ) Shane Clark ( 21 ) Wintersport, ME , 74 Laps
12. ( 17 ) Jake Matheson ( 52 ) Hillsboro, NH , 74 Laps
13. ( 18 ) Anthony Constantino ( 14C ) Turner, ME , 74 Laps
14. ( 9 ) Keith Rocco ( 48 ) Berlin, CT , 74 Laps
15. ( 20 ) Kate Re ( 10 ) Harrison, ME , 74 Laps
16. ( 21 ) Brandon Turbush ( 17X ) Manorville, NY , 71 Laps
17. ( 15 ) Kevin Folan ( 17 ) N. Attleboro, MA , 68 Laps
18. ( 7 ) Brandon Barker ( 88 ) Windham, ME , 62 Laps
19. ( 11 ) Devin O'Connell ( 43 ) Madison, CT , 42 Laps
20. ( 10 ) Jake Johnson ( 15MA ) Rehoboth, MA , 31 Laps
21. ( 13 ) Garrett Hall ( 94 ) Scarborough, ME , 2 Laps

PASS SUPER LATE MODELS
ENTRY LIST - THOMPSON - 4/10/21

SUNOCO MODIFIEDS
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Keith Rocco ( 57 ) Berlin , CT
2. Troy Talman ( 3 ) Oxford , MA
3. Todd Owen ( 81 ) Somers , CT
4. Mike Christopher Jr. ( 82 ) Wolcott , CT
5. Danny Cates ( 2 ) Chaplin , CT
6. Jonathan Puleo ( 7 ) Branford , CT
7. John Lowinski-Loh ( 33 ) Thompson , CT
8. Richard Williams ( 59 ) 0 , 0
9. Jason Sundeen ( 26 ) Douglas , MA
10. Paul LaPlante ( 02 ) N. Scituate , RI
11. Darin Renihan ( 44 ) 0 , 0
12. Max Zachem ( 27 ) Preston , CT
13. Christian Turrisi ( 76 ) Clinton , CT
14. Joe Allegro Jr. ( 08 ) Vernon , RI
15. Dylan Izzo ( 11X ) Monroe , CT

NEMA LITES MIDGETS
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Bobby Santos III ( 1 ) Franklin, MA
2. Jim Santa Maria ( 97 ) Burlington, CT
3. Jake Trainor ( 29 ) Medway, MA
4. Kyle Valeri ( 17 ) Monument Beach, MA
5. Randy Cabral ( 35 ) Plymouth, MA
6. Richie Coy ( 19 ) Haskell, NJ
7. Christopher Vose ( 3 ) Gloversville, NY
8. Tiana Kibbe ( 94 ) Fairfield, CT
9. Dennis O'Brien ( 16 ) Deerfield, NH
10. Dan Cugini ( 51 ) Philadelphia, PA
11. Anthony Payne ( 44 ) Fairlawn, NJ
12. Kevin Park ( 2 ) Foxboro, MA
13. Mikey Pernisiglio ( 28 ) Ronkonkoma, NY
14. Brayden Egan ( 59 ) Asford, CT
15. Joe Bailey ( 21 ) Monroe, NJ
16. Dylan Coutu ( 53 ) Griswold, CT
17. Paul Scally ( 30 ) Raynham, MA

STREET STOCK OPEN
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Paul Newcomb ( 7 ) Plymouth, MA
2. Ryan Waterman ( 75 ) Danielson, CT
3. Kyle Gero ( 19CT ) Baltic, CT
4. Jimmy Renfrew Jr. ( 00 ) Candia, NH
5. Joe Kohler ( 43 ) Scituate, RI
6. Wayne Coury ( 17CT ) Milford, CT
7. Bobby Seger Jr. ( 17 ) Hermon, ME
8. Devon McConologue ( 18 ) West Newfield, ME
9. Justin Travis ( 45 ) North Smithfield, CT
10. Nickolas Hovey ( 16 ) Chaplin, CT
11. Jon Porter ( 38 ) East Lyme, CT
12. Michael Malbaurn ( 64 ) Moosup, CT
13. Zachary Mead ( 25 ) Putnam, CT
14. Kristopher Kay ( 8 ) Dudley, MA
15. Vinny Panglinan ( 53 ) Warwick, RI
16. Jeremy Washburn ( 78 ) Willimantic, CT
17. Tom Shea ( 45B ) Somers, CT
18. Christopher Buffone ( 2 ) Belchertown, MA
19. Randall Waterman Jr. ( 57 ) Danielson, CT
20. Aaron Plemons ( 67 ) Uncasville, CT
21. Paul Williams ( 13 ) Stoughton, MA
DNS Jim Silvia ( 116 ) Middletown, RI
DNS Corey Fanning ( 47 ) Mapleville, RI

EXIT REALTY PRO TRUCK CHALLENGE
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Gerard Giordano Jr. ( 15 ) Freeport, NY
2. Ryan Vanasse ( 31 ) Warwick, RI
3. Emma Monahan ( 78 ) Waterford, CT
4. Duane Noll ( 2 ) Trumbull, CT
5. Connor Souza ( 38 ) East Providence, RI
6. Joe Arena ( 01 ) Wethersfield, CT
7. Andy Lindeman ( 3 ) Poestenkill, NY
8. Todd Taylor ( 47 ) Stonington, CT
9. Joseph Coates ( 91 ) Ledyard, CT
10. Randy Burr ( 32 ) Middleboro, MA
11. Jim Boyle ( 02 ) East Windsor, CT
12. Nathan Smith ( 55 ) 0
13. Joe Liscawitz ( 4 ) 0
14. Dave Koenig ( 97 ) Oceanside, NY
15. Brandon Hunt ( 84 ) East Windsor, CT
16. Robert Busch Jr. ( 17 ) 0
17. Devon Jencik ( 23 ) Canton, CT
18. Allen Coates ( 90 ) Ledyard, CT
19. Jason Ferreira ( 24 ) Lowell, MA
20. Andrew Morin ( 10 ) Old Saybrook, CT
21. Ariana (Ari) Jencik ( 33 ) Canton, CT
22. Brad Caddick ( 48 ) Wyoming, RI
23. Chris Taylor ( 5 ) 0
24. Lucas Leone ( 1 ) Southington, CT
25. Dylan Cabral ( 19 ) Richmond, RI

THOMPSON MINI STOCKS
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Jared Roy ( 1 ) Sterling , CT
2. Thomas Silva ( 31 ) Gales Ferry , CT
3. Dave Trudeau ( 97 ) Mansfield , CT
4. Douglas Curry ( 2 ) Bosrah , CT
5. Charles Canfield ( 25 ) East Haven , CT
6. Steven H. Michalski ( 44 ) Brooklyn , CT
7. Russell Barboza ( 4 ) Plainfield , CT
8. Kevin Moore ( 04 ) Moosup , CT
9. Scott Quinn ( 20RI ) Harrisville , RI
10. Nadine Coates ( 40 ) Newport , NH
11. Raymond Herman Sr. ( 91 ) Baltic , CT

Norwalk, CT's Ron Silk emerges from his Modified after winning
the Icebreaker 125 at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway
Motorsports Park. (Daniel Holben photo)

Silk Pounces Late to Win
Thompson Icebreaker 125
Carey, Barnett, and Bello Take
Victories in Icebreaker Nightcap

Thompson, CT -- Norwalk, CT's Ron Silk took advantage of a late caution flag to snag the $10,000 top prize in the Icebreaker 125 at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on Saturday, April 10. Silk took the lead from Berlin, CT's Keith Rocco with 12 laps remaining and was the inaugural winner of the new Outlaw Open Modified Series at the Icebreaker nightcap.

It was the first-ever Tour-type Modified victory for Haydt Yannone Racing and came at the end of a night where Silk went up and down the running order like a yo-yo. The former NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion kept fighting, though, and triumphed at the Icebreaker for the first time since 2012.

Rocco started on the pole and lead the first seven laps before Enfield, CT's Ronnie Williams took over. Williams paced the field until a mandatory fuel stop at lap 30. During that stop, Silk's team was penalized for unauthorized use of equipment. Silk was sent to rear and pitted again for adjustments before the field went back to green.

"My car really wasn't too good at that point," Silk said of the penalty. "I was too free anyway, so it might have been a little bit of a blessing. I was kind of hanging onto third at that point, so it was good to come in and get a little bit of an adjustment and figure out that we still needed to go for more when we put (the new) tires on at the end."

At the front, Williams surrendered the lead back to Rocco on lap 42 before Chelmsford, MA's Jon McKennedy took the point 10 circuits later. When the sixth yellow flew at lap 55 for Artie Pedersen's spin, many of the leaders pitted for fresh tires and/or adjustments, leaving McKennedy and Rocco as the only drivers who hadn't made at least one non-fuel stop.

Riverhead, NY's Eric Goodale, the recent Martinsville Speedway winner, snatched the lead from McKennedy on lap 58 with Silk not far behind. Williams was flying through the field, though, and went to the front again with 67 laps in the books.

The next trio of cautions greatly changed the event's cousin. A debris caution on lap 73 led to McKennedy, Rocco, Goodale, and others heading to the pits. But one lap after the restart, the filed got stacked up entering turn one. McKennedy, Goodale, and Chris Pasteryak ended up piling into the wall to bring out the red flag.

Williams and Sam Rameau then pulled away before the ninth yellow on lap 89 when Anthony Sesely and Andrew Krause tangled in turn two. Another en masse visit to the pits followed, with Rocco leading the herd onto the track in fourth. Meanwhile, Williams and Silk took the green in 10th and 11th, respectively.

Rocco made short work on the restart to take the lead from J.B. Fortin on lap 91. Craig Lutz and Williams navigated their way through the field, and with laps winding down, it looked like a three-car shootout for the win. Lutz had gotten up to fourth well back of the lead trio.

But on the 113th circuit, Bobby Santos III spun to bring out the 10th and final caution. Silk saw his opportunity and went for it, jumping from fourth to second on the restart and then diving beneath Rocco in turn three one lap later, with Rocco making an unsuccessful crossover attempt. Silk kept the field at bay from there, leading the final 12 laps for the Icebreaker win.

"It's cool to say you won the first Open race in this new structure here, and 10 Grand is always great," Silk said. "(This team has) put a lot of effort and money into this, so it's good to get them some results."

Rocco finished second after winning the Sunoco Modified feature earlier in the day. Santos put on fresh tires after his spin and tore through the field to take third. Lutz, Williams, Rameau, Matt Swanson, Sesely, Mike Christopher Jr., and Patrick Emerling completed the top-10.
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Warwick, MA's Tom Carey III has won the Late Model feature
at the last two Icebreakers. (Daniel Holben photo)

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Warwick, MA's Tom Carey III pulled away late to win the 40-lap Late Model feature. Carey started sixth and was challenging N. Dartmouth, MA's Derek Gluchacki when the third caution flew on lap eight for Paul Heard's front stretch spin. It was part of a calamitous start that also Jason Larivee Jr. and Donald Macrino scale the turn-three wall in an earlier incident.

Carey put the nose out front on the third restart just before another yellow for Kevin Bowe. This time, when the green flew, Carey and Gluchacki spent multiple laps swapping paint before Carey finally gained the upper hand. Once the field finally got a long green-flag run, Carey's Chevrolet truly came to life as he steadily extended the margin.

The fifth and final yellow for a turn-two spin by Charles H. Bailey IV set up a seven-lap dash for cash. On the restart, North Franklin, CT's Ryan Morgan wound it up on the outside and went from fourth to second. Gluchacki then tried to get back at Morgan, which gave Carey the cushion he needed to take the victory and a $1,200 payday. It was Carey's second straight Late Model Icebreaker win.

"I'm lucky enough to have two of these (Icebreaker wins) now," Carey said after the event. "It's huge, man. This event has always been a stable to kick off the season in New England. I'm just honored, really, to win at a historic track like Thompson -- a track that I really love and always have since I was a little kid."

Morgan held on for the runner-up spot. Gluchacki completed the podium followed by Woody Pitkat and Rick Gentes. Matthew Lowinski-Loh, Corey Fanning, Charles H. Bailey III, Nicolas Johnson, and Mark Jenison rounded out the top-10.
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Larry Barnett took his first Limited Sportsman victory at
Thompson Speedway in nearly four years. (Daniel Holben photo)

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Moosup, CT's Larry Barnett found his way to Thompson's Victory Lane for the first time since 2017 in the 25-lap Limited Sportsmen feature. Barnett was running fourth on lap seven when Kyle Gero and Ryan Waterman tangled in turn two racing for lead. Troy Waterman had nowhere to go and piled into Gero, severely damaging both cars.

Corey Fanning and Barnett inherited the front row for the restart, with Barnett getting the jump on the restart. Barnett, Fanning, and Brent Gleason then broke away from the pack before Gleason went to work on Fanning for second, allowing Barnett to stretch his lead out.

One more caution on lap 20 for Jeffrey VanPelt's spin re-racked the field for a sprint to the finish. Barnett took charge again and rolled to another victory on the Thompson high banks.

Fanning held off Gleason by a few feet to finish second. Ryan Waterman recovered from the lap-7 incident to finish fourth. Scott Sundeen, Douglas Curry, Nicholas Hovey, Michael Malbaurn, Tommy Shea, and Aaron Plemons completed the top-10.
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Anthony Bello made the pass in the next-to-last corner to win
the SK Light Modified feature. (Daniel Holben photo)

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Newtown, CT's Anthony Bello saved his best for last to capture the SK Light Modified feature by a whisker. Bello spent most of the 25-lap event stalking Danbury, CT's George Bessette Jr., who had led from the outside pole. As many as six cars raced under a blanket with a minor spin on lap three being the only thing to slow them down.

Bello looked to Bessette's inside midway through the race, but nothing was doing. Coming into turn three for the final time, though, Bello swept by Bessette on the inside. Bessette pulled the crossover move off turn four and the two drag-raced to the finish line. At the checkered flag, Bello was ahead by just 0.023 seconds to claim victory.

Bessette settled for a heartbreaking second followed by Albert Ouellette in third. Wayne Burroughs Jr., Steven Chapman, Shawn Thibeault, Nathan Pytho, Josh Carey, Paul Charette, and John O'Sullivan III came home fourth through 10th.

THOMPSON SPEEDWAY MOTORSPORTS PARK
THOMPSON ICEBREAKER -- NIGHT SESSION
SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2021
UNOFFICIAL RESULTS

OUTLAW OPEN MODIFIED SERIES
ICEBREAKER 125
Pos., Start Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown, Laps
1. ( 3 ) Ron Silk ( 16CT ) Norwalk, CT , 125 Laps
2. ( 1 ) Keith Rocco ( 57CT ) Berlin, CT , 125 Laps
3. ( 11 ) Bobby Santos III ( 44MA ) Franklin, MA , 125 Laps
4. ( 2 ) Craig Lutz ( 46NY ) Middle Island, NY , 125 Laps
5. ( 5 ) Ronnie Williams ( 25CT ) Tolland, CT , 125 Laps
6. ( 12 ) Sam Rameau ( 06MA ) Westminster, MA , 125 Laps
7. ( 6 ) Matt Swanson ( 3MA ) Harvard, MA , 125 Laps
8. ( 20 ) Anthony Sesely ( 16NJ ) Port Monmouth, NJ , 125 Laps
9. ( 17 ) Mike Christopher Jr. ( 7NY ) Wolcott, CT , 125 Laps
10. ( 10 ) Patrick Emerling ( 1CT ) Orchard Park, NY , 125 Laps
11. ( 22 ) J.B. Fortin ( 84NY ) Holtsville, NY , 125 Laps
12. ( 15 ) Anthony Nocella ( 92MA ) Woburn, MA , 125 Laps
13. ( 21 ) Jeffrey Gallup ( 4MA ) Agawam, MA , 125 Laps
14. ( 18 ) Todd Owen ( 81MA ) Somers, CT , 116 Laps
15. ( 7 ) Andrew Krause ( 24NJ ) Holmdel, NJ , 92 Laps
16. ( 19 ) Richard Savary ( 99MA ) Holbrook, MA , 91 Laps
17. ( 4 ) Chris Pasteryak ( 75CT ) Moosup, CT , 74 Laps
18. ( 8 ) Eric Goodale ( 58NY ) Riverhead, NY , 74 Laps
19. ( 9 ) Jonathan McKennedy ( 79MA ) Chelmsford, MA , 74 Laps
20. ( 24 ) Artie Pedersen III ( 01NY ) Center Moriches, NY , 55 Laps
21. ( 14 ) Noah Korner ( 31CT ) Avon, CT , 52 Laps
22. ( 16 ) Dan Meservey ( 45MA ) Brewster, MA , 34 Laps
23. ( 13 ) Max Zachem ( 18CT ) Oakdale, CT , 18 Laps
24. ( 23 ) Andy Shaw ( 60NH ) Center Conway, NH , 4 Laps
25. ( 25 ) Trevor Bleau ( 4NH ) Troy, NH , 4 Laps
DNS Carl Medieros Jr. ( 50MA ) Westport, MA
DNS Derek Robbie ( 27MA ) Bellingham, MA
DNS Josh Zentek ( 81CT ) East Haven, CT
DNS Robert Bloxsom ( 55CT ) Stratford, CT

Lap Leaders: Keith Rocco, 1-7; Ronnie Williams, 8-41; Rocco, 42-51; Jonathan McKennedy, 52-57; Eric Goodale, 58-66; Williams, 67-89; J.B. Fortin, 90; Rocco, 91-113; Ron Silk, 114-125. (8 lead changes among 6 drivers)

Time of Race: 1 hour, 19 minutes, 49 seconds Margin of Victory: 0.772 seconds

Cautions: 10 (laps 4, 18, 18, 30, 33, 55, 73, 74 [red], 89, 112)

Heat Winners: Keith Rocco, Eric Goodale, Jonathan McKennedy

Consi Winner: Anthony Sesely

ACT-TYPE LATE MODELS
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. ( 6 ) Tom Carey III ( 5MA ) Warwick , MA
2. ( 3 ) Ryan Morgan ( 31CT ) North Franklin , CT
3. ( 2 ) Derek Gluchacki ( 03MA ) No. Dartmouth , MA
4. ( 5 ) Woody Pitkat ( 91CT ) Bellingham , MA
5. ( 4 ) Rick Gentes ( 70 ) Harrisville , RI
6. ( 11 ) Matthew Lowinski-Loh ( 17 ) Milford , MA
7. ( 17 ) Corey Fanning ( 11 ) Mapleville , RI
8. ( 13 ) Charles H. Bailey III ( 94CT ) Lisbon , CT
9. ( 15 ) Nicholas Johnson ( 6 ) Rehoboth , MA
10. ( 9 ) Mark Jenison ( 22RI ) Warwick , RI
11. ( 18 ) Paul Heard ( 32 ) Lisbon , CT
12. ( 8 ) Ryan Waterman ( 75 ) Danielson , CT
13. ( 1 ) Shawn Monahan ( 55 ) Waterford , CT
14. ( 7 ) Brian Tagg ( 9MA ) Oxford , MA
15. ( 14 ) Mike Benevides ( 50RI ) Westerly , RI
16. ( 20 ) Charles H. Bailey IV ( 4CT ) Lisbon , CT
17. ( 16 ) Kevin Bowe ( 28RI ) Smithfield , RI
18. ( 10 ) Jason Larivee Jr. ( 70RI ) West Greenwich , RI
19. ( 12 ) Donald A. Macrino ( 13 ) Waterford , CT
20. ( 19 ) Glenn Boss ( 3 ) Danielson , CT
DNS Joseph Parker ( 60MA ) Weymouth , MA

LIMITED SPORTSMEN
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Lawrence P. Barnett ( 73 ) Moosup , CT
2. Corey Fanning ( 47 ) Mapleville , RI
3. Brent Gleason ( 01 ) Griswold , CT
4. Ryan Waterman ( 24 ) Danielson , CT
5. Scott Sundeen ( 36 ) Sutton , MA
6. Douglas Curry ( 2 ) Bosrah , CT
7. Nicholas Hovey ( 16 ) Chaplin , CT
8. Michael Malbaurn ( 64 ) Moosup , CT
9. Tommy Shea ( 45 ) Somers , CT
10. Aaron Plemons ( 67 ) Uncasville , CT
11. Jeffery VanPelt ( 13 ) Johnston , RI
12. Charles H. Scott III ( 10 ) Medway , MA
13. Doug Benoit ( 2X ) Swansea , MA
14. Kevin Mason ( 37 ) West Warwick , RI
15. Kristopher Kay ( 8 ) Dudley , MA
16. Zachary Mead ( 25X ) Putnam , CT
17. Edward Flanagan, Jr ( 5 ) Warwick , RI
18. Al Stone III ( 52 ) Durham , CT
19. Jon Porter ( 38 ) East Lyme , CT
20. Kyle Gero ( 19CT ) Baltic , CT
21. Troy Waterman ( 75 ) Danielson , CT
22. Brandon Houghton ( 57 ) Thompson , CT

SK LIGHT MODIFIEDS
Pos., Driver, Car #, Hometown
1. Anthony Bello ( 2 ) Newtown , CT
2. George Bessette, Jr ( 39 ) Danbury , CT
3. Albert Ouellette ( 151 ) Ellington , CT
4. Wayne Burroughs, Jr ( 32 ) Colchester , CT
5. Steven Chapman ( 14 ) Ellington , CT
6. Shawn Thibeault ( 56 ) North Windham , CT
7. Nathan G. Pytho ( 24 ) Oxford , MA
8. Josh Carey ( 69 ) Belchertown , MA
9. Paul Charette ( 28 ) Woodstock , CT
10. John O'Sullivan III ( 15 ) Norwich , CT
11. Jason Paquette ( 94 ) Baltic , CT
12. Michael Mitchell ( 40 ) Cumberland , RI
13. Peter Lopuch ( 71 ) Redding , CT
14. Glenn Korner ( 27 ) Bloomfield , CT
15. Steve Kenneway ( 26 ) Lowell , MA
DNS Cameron Houle ( 05 ) Clinton , MA

REVISED SATURDAY ONLY EVENT
SCHEDULE for 47TH ICEBREAKER

THOMPSON - SATURDAY APRIL 10th

SLMs DJ Shaw #60 vs Eddie MacDonald #17ma (Norm Marx photo)

Icebreaker Sunday Moved to
Saturday Night Due to Forecast

Waterbury, VT & Naples, ME -- The Sunday program of the annual Icebreaker at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park has been rescheduled for Saturday, April 10 at approximately 5:30pm. American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) officials made the decision due to an inclement weather forecast for Sunday, April 11. The Saturday night forecast is far more favorable with clear skies highs in the low-60s.

Both days of the Icebreaker will now be run on Saturday. The post time for the original Saturday card has been moved up to 12:00pm. The PASS Super Late Models, Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Street Stock Open, and Mini Stocks will run their shows as originally planned.

The Saturday afternoon program is expected to conclude at approximately 4:00pm. At this time, officials will clear both the stands and the pits. All fans will exit to the parking lot. Drivers and crew members with multi-day pit wristbands will go to the track infield.

Once the stands and pits are clear, those who have Sunday tickets and pit passes may re-enter for the Saturday night event. This card includes the Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modifieds along with the Thompson Late Models, Limited Sportsmen, and SK Light Modifieds.

General admission for the Saturday afternoon card is $30 for adults and $10 for kids ages 12 and under. Saturday night is $35 for adults and $10 for kids ages 12 and under. Grandstand tickets and pit passes will be available at the gate.

The Friday Test N' Tune has also been extended until 6:30pm. This will help replace the lost practice time from moving the Sunday event. The complete revised schedule of events has been posted at www.acttour.com/thompson-speedway, www.proallstarsseries.com, and www.thompsonspeedway.com.

"This is what made the most sense based on the weather forecast and other circumstances," ACT managing partner Cris Michaud said. "A lot of teams and fans who traveled a long way for the Icebreaker are already at the track. This will save them the hours of driving and travel costs needed to finish the show on another weekend. It's also the fairest solution given that many people who already bought Sunday tickets might not be able to come back at another time."

"The Saturday night forecast looks really good for racing," Michaud said. "We think it's going to be a lot of fun watching the country's top Tour-type Modified racers go at it for $10,000 under the lights at Thompson Speedway."

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10.

Two separate cards of thrilling action are planned. The Saturday afternoon card begins at 12:00pm with the PASS Super Late Models, Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open.

At 5:30pm on Saturday night, the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series takes center stage. There's also a 40-lap Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9.

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER TICKETS HERE

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Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday afternoon and $35 for Saturday night. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 for each program. Advance tickets are available at https://happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track.
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Pay-Per-View purchase link for the Icebreaker:

THOMPSON ICEBREAKER STREAMING

Speed51.TV is also offering a live pay-per-view broadcast for both segments of the Icebreaker. PPV passes are $29.99 for Saturday after, $34.99 for Saturday night, and $54.99 for the full program. Sign up now at https://www.speed51.tv/products/ppv-2021-icebreaker-weekend-pass-at-thompson.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

Connecticut's Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season on
Saturday, April 10 with the annual Icebreaker. (Kyle Souza photo)

Thompson Speedway Roars Back
To Life With Icebreaker Practice

Story Courtesy of Souza Media -- Thompson, CT - More than 125 cars visited the grounds of Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on Friday for a practice session ahead of the season-opening Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10. A mix of drivers from 10 different divisions turned out to tune their rides in for what will be a busy Saturday to open the season at Thompson.

Due to weather, the original Sunday program will be run on Saturday night, following a full day of planned Saturday action. Tickets will be available for purchase at the track.

As the Outlaw Open Modified Series began final preparation for the Icebreaker 125 -- which is worth $10,000 to the winner -- a handful of cars were at Thompson on Friday for practice. Posting the fastest timed lap of the day, and leading most of the practice rounds was Tolland, Connecticut, native Ronnie Williams. Driving for Gary Casella, Williams posted a fast time of 18.428 seconds around the .625-mile oval. The two-time Stafford Motor Speedway SK Modified champion will be a threat on Saturday evening. Names like Anthony Nocella, Bobby Santos III and multiple-time track champion and winner Keith Rocco also found their way near the top of the speed charts on Friday.

Set to open the Challenge Cup on Saturday evening, the Late Model field, which approached 20 for a practice day, included a fast lap by Derek Gluchacki, driving the No. 03 All Phases Renovations machine. Gluchacki, the 2020 American-Canadian Tour Rookie of the Year, has one previous Thompson win, at the Sunoco World Series in 2019. He was joined near the top by Tom Carey III, Woody Pitkat, who swept both races at Thompson last year, and longtime competitors Mark Jension and Rick Gentes.

Double Hickory winner Derek Griffith #12g posted fastest lap of
the SLMs on Friday with PASS multi-time Champion
Johnny Clark #54 also showing speed. (Norm Marx photo)

The stars of the Pro All Star Series, with a field over 20 expected, practiced with Derek Griffith posting the fastest lap of the day. Griffith is coming off an impressive performance in Hickory, North Carolina, where he swept a weekend of PASS competition at Hickory Motor Speedway last weekend. Rising star Jake Johnson and former PASS champions Johnny Clark and Ben Rowe also showed speed under the hood.

Ryan Waterman, who won both Limited Sportsman events at Thompson last year, comfortably posted the fastest lap of the day for the division. He will be joined by a stout list of competitors, many of which will double-dip and compete in the $1,000 to win, 8-Cylinder Open Street Stock feature. Names to watch in the Open race include Christopher Buffone, who won the event at the World Series in 2020.

Thompson's own Sunoco Modifieds roared back to life with names like Danny Cates, Keith Rocco, Todd Owen and Troy Talman showing the way inside the top-five. In the SK Light Modifieds, Nathan Pytko, Steven Chapman, John O'Sullivan and Wayne Burroughs Jr were among some of the fastest in the field.

The EXIT Realty Pro Truck Series and Mini Stock drivers also ran practice laps on Friday. The stars of the NEMA Lites will be heading to Thompson for the race day on Saturday to wrap the 10 division card.

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10. Two separate cards of thrilling action are planned. The Saturday afternoon card begins at 12:00pm with the PASS Super Late Models, Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open.

At 5:30pm on Saturday night, the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series takes center stage. There's also a 40-lap Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds.

Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday afternoon and $35 for Saturday night. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 for each program. Advance tickets are available at https://happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track.

Speed51.TV is also offering a live pay-per-view broadcast for both days of the Icebreaker. PPV passes are $29.99 for Saturday after, $34.99 for Saturday night, and $54.99 for the full program. Sign up now at https://www.speed51.tv/products/ppv-2021-icebreaker-weekend-pass-at-thompson.

For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

*Sat.-Sun. APRIL 10th & 11th*


*EVENT SCHEDULE FOR 47TH ICEBREAKER PDF*

The annual Thompson Icebreaker. which includes the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125, will be aired live via pay-per-view on Speed51.TV. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)
Thompson Icebreaker to Be Broadcast on Speed51.TV Network Agrees to Pay-Per-View Deal for All Six Thompson Oval Events in 2021

Waterbury, VT & Naples, ME -- Fans of Northeast auto racing now have another way to enjoy the lid-lifter on 2021 season. The American-Canadian Tour (ACT), Pro All Star Series (PASS), and Speed51.TV have announced a live pay-per-view broadcast for the annual Icebreaker at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on April 10 and 11. Both days of the auto racing festival will be available in full via the live broadcast. Fans around the world can enjoy 10 divisions of heart-pounding action. This includes the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 on Sunday for the new Outlaw Open Modified Series, a 75-lap Saturday showdown for the PASS Super Late Models, and all of Thompson Speedway's local divisions. Tickets for the pay-per-view live stream are $30 for Saturday-only, $35 for Sunday-only, or $55 for a two-day pass. The sign-up link will be available later this week at www.speed51.tv. Post time is 1:00pm on Saturday, April 10 and 1:15pm on Sunday, April 11. The Icebreaker broadcast is part of a multi-year agreement between PASS and Speed51.TV. As part of the deal, all six Thompson Speedway oval track events will be aired live on the network. This includes four Wednesday shows featuring $5,000-to-win Outlaw Open Modified Series shows as well as the return of the Thompson 300 at the World Series of Speedway Racing. Pay-per-view details for each event will be announced in the weeks leading up to the event. "We're excited that fans around the world can now watch every lap of Thompson Speedway oval action in 2021," PASS President Tom Mayberry said. "The Icebreaker and the World Series are two of the most revered auto racing events in North America. The Wednesday Summer series is sure to enthrall fans, too. Thanks to Speed51.TV, even fans who can't get to the track or don't yet feel safe in crowds can still enjoy some fantastic racing." Speed51.TV is one of the leading broadcasters of North American short track auto racing events. They offer pay-per-view, live streaming, and on-demand viewing options for well over 100 events annually. Fans can also enjoy thousands of hours of race highlights, recaps, and interviews. Speed51.TV is available online along with most mobile and smart TV platforms. To learn more about Speed51.TV or create an account, visit www.speed51.tv. Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. Ten of the region's top divisions will compete across two days of racing. Sunday's card features the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series with qualifying going green at 1:15pm. There's also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds. Saturday's six-division card is highlighted by the season-opening Thompson 75 for the PASS North Super Late Models. They're joined by the Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open with a 1:00pm post time. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 with all Icebreaker divisions welcome. For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour. For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens. For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

Sat.-Sun. APRIL 10th & 11th

Ryan Preece celebrates winning a 2017 NASCAR Whelen
Modified Tour event at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park.
(Michael Jaworecki/My Race News photo)

Preece Officially Enters
Thompson Icebreaker 125

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE
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Waterbury, VT & Naples, ME -- One of the top Modified and stock car racers in the country is coming to Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park this weekend. Berlin, CT's Ryan Preece has officially entered the Outlaw Open Modified Series Icebreaker 125 scheduled for Sunday, April 11 as part of the annual season-opening Icebreaker.

Preece, who is in his third full season of NASCAR Cup Series competition, will drive the familiar Eddie Partridge-owned #6CT Riverhead Raceway Tour-type Modified. He joins a list of more than 30 drivers aiming for the $10,000 top prize in the Outlaw Open Modified Series debut.

The 30-year-old immediately becomes one of the favorites in the Icebreaker 125. Preece is a former Thompson Speedway Sunoco Modified Champion, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion, and two-time NASCAR Xfinity Series winner. Most recently, he won the SMART Modified Tour event at Virginia's South Boston Speedway on April 3 and currently sits 18th in Cup Series points. Preece will run the same car at the Icebreaker that he used to win the South Boston event in dominating fashion.

The Thompson Speedway show is the finale of a busy weekend for Preece. He'll be running the NASCAR Whelen Modified event at Virginia's Martinsville Speedway on Thursday April 8 along with the Cup Series event there on Saturday, April 10. Preece will then travel to Connecticut on Sunday for practice, qualifying, and the 125-lap main event.

"It's because I like to try and win, and I obviously have Eddie and Connie Partridge as car owners that allow us to do it," Preece said. "You have these cars because you want to go race them and hopefully win the money. We want to go compete. We aren't going to just let them sit on jack stands."

"I think we have a good chance (to win)," Preece added. "There are a bunch of different motor combinations and drivers, but we have strong race cars. We have the best you could ask for."

Preece joins a long list of accomplished Modified racers coming to Thompson Speedway this weekend. Fellow NASCAR champions Doug Coby, Ron Silk, and Bobby Santos III have entered the Icebreaker 125, as have many other Tour-type Modified champions and winners. The addition of Preece and North Easton, MA's Rob Richardi Jr. brings the official entry list to 31 drivers with more expected on Sunday.

The event will be 125 green flag laps, as opposed to 150 laps with cautions counting as in past Icebreaker events. Preece doesn't feel the green-flag lap strategy is going to be much different and says it will just come down to playing it out during the day.

"I think you just have to be aware of how the race is playing out with the strategy and just be there at the end of it," Preece said.

Wherever he finishes, Preece gets to compete back home in front of the Connecticut race fans where he grew up. Preece was raised a little more than an hour from the track and was a fixture at the track before successfully making the jump to the NASCAR national touring series.

"It's really cool," Preece said. "I think it's awesome what Thompson is doing, having these open shows, and paying $10,000 to win is great. We need more of these (events) in Modified racing. Being home in Connecticut, I've been racing locally for a long time. Going to Thompson, it's nice to see people you've been around for years and it's great being with those who support you."

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. Ten local and regional series go green at the two-day racing festival. Sunday's card features the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series. There's also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds. Post time is 1:15pm.

Saturday's six-division card is highlighted by the Thompson 75 for the PASS North Super Late Models beginning at 1:00pm. They're joined by the Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 for all Icebreaker divisions.

Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday and $35 for Sunday. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 each day. Advance tickets are available at happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track.

Speed51.TV is also offering a live pay-per-view broadcast for both days of the Icebreaker. PPV passes are $29.99 for Saturday-only, $34.99 for Sunday-only, and $54.99 for both days. Sign up now at www.speed51.tv/products/ppv-2021-icebreaker-weekend-pass-at-thompson.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

Berlin, CT's Ryan Preece, a former Thompson Speedway Motorsports
Park champion and current NASCAR Cup Series regular, has officially
entered the Icebreaker 125 on Sunday, April 11.
(Alan Ward/Big Al's Photos)

Sat.-Sun. APRIL 10th & 11th

The PASS Super Late Models highlight the Saturday, April 11 Icebreaker
card with a 75-lap showdown that opens the PASS North championship
season. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Fendered Divisions Going
Full-Throttle with Big
Thompson Icebreaker Slate

EVENT SCHEDULE FOR 47TH ICEBREAKER PDF

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE
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Story Courtesy of Souza Media - - Waterbury, VT & Naples, ME --Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park is now less than two weeks away from the season-opening Icebreaker on April 10-11. As part of a packed 10-division lineup, there are a mix of fendered divisions, open-wheel modifieds and winged Midgets.

The fendered side of the schedule is packed with three Thompson local divisions and three touring series classes. The stars of the Pro All Star Series lead the way with a 75-lap feature as the headliner of the Saturday slate. They are joined on Saturday by the EXIT Realty Pro Truck Series, Mini Stocks and a special $1,000 to win, 8-Cylinder Street Stock open race.

On Sunday, the Limited Sportsman and Late Models get their crack at opening the season. The Limited Sportsman have a special 25-lap feature while the ACT-type Late Models go 40 laps in support of the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series.

The early entries for the Mini Stock season include a list of tenured veterans who are heading back to Thompson in search of more glory. The 2019 track champion, Doug Curry, is joined by Steve Michalski, Russell Barboza, Tommy Silva and more as the early contenders. In two Mini Stock races at the Connecticut oval in 2020, Jared Roy collected checkered flags in both. The Mini Stocks are often Thompson's most affordable class for a competitor but put on some of the best racing at the track.

As part of the Limited Sportsman division, all eyes will be on some of Thompson's most polished veterans. Former track champions entered for the season include Kyle Gero, Ryan Waterman, Scott Sundeen and Larry Barnett. All four drivers have proven they can get the job done, but it's been Waterman who has done the most winning lately, taking both races at Thompson during the 2020 season. Additional registered drivers include former division winners Corey Fanning and Brent Gleason, former Thompson Mini Stock champion Curry, Kristopher Kay, former Seekonk Speedway regular Ed Flanagan Jr. and more. The Limited Sportsman division is long known for three-wide action and drivers sliding around the track in search of the checkered flag.

Some of those same Limited Sportsman drivers will be competing on Saturday when the $1,000 to win, 8-Cylinder Street Stock race hits the high-banks. At the World Series in 2020, it was Christopher Buffone who scored the win, and he's planning on returning to attempt to keep that crown. Buffone led laps early but fell to fourth-spot by halfway. It wasn't long before he was back out front after all three drivers in front of him suffered mechanical failures, propelling him to victory. This time, he's hoping to not depend on Lady Luck and dominate the show instead. His victory at Thompson came in his first start at the 0.625-mile oval.

"I'm super excited to head back to the track I grew up watching my Uncle Tom and Mike O'Sullivan in the Pro Stocks and Late Models up until 2011," Buffone said. "Being able to win my first race there last year was pretty amazing. But I had lots of help from the years of experience my family has there in weekly racing. I think my chances of going back and repeating are just as likely as they were the first time, just this time I'm going in with a few more laps under my belt. There will be a ton of top-notch race cars there, along with ours, so winning would be a huge feat -- especially to go back-to-back."

The Late Models open the season with a $1,200-to-win, 40-lap feature part of the Sunday portion of Icebreaker weekend. In their debut race on the new ACT Hoosier tire, drivers from across New England will commence at Thompson to help open the New England Late Model Challenge Cup. Originally slated to open last year, but halted due to COVID-19, the Challenge Cup allows registered competitors to take their best 10 eligible finishes at participating tracks across New England towards the season-long point standings. A guaranteed minimum point fund of $14,000 has been posted with a minimum prize of $3,000 to the overall winner.

Perhaps the favorite heading into the new year is former track champion Woody Pitkat, who returns to competition with the Hartwell Motorsports team after a successful two years together. In 2019, Pitkat went into the World Series of Speedway Racing in contention to win the championship on the strength of multiple wins. In 2020, in a shortened season due to COVID, Pitkat swept the two races at the Connecticut oval. His partnership with Hartwell Motorsports has proven to be a strong one that is nearly unbeaten of late.

Additional former Late Model track champions in the field include Brian Tagg and Nick Johnson, while names like defending American-Canadian Tour Rookie of the Year Derek Gluchacki, Tom Carey III and others are also expected to contend in the opener.

"I always feel confident going into Thompson," Carey, a former winner at Thompson in the weekly division, said. "I feel like I should have a couple ACT Tour wins there already -- I just kind of got plagued with bad luck. I've always had a really fast hot rod there, though. The first time I got taken out with five laps to go, and then on the first lap the second time -- both times while I was running on the front row. It's going to be fun. I'm looking forward to the changes that ACT and PASS have planned for the place. Hopefully they bring the venue back to the glory that it deserves."

The EXIT Realty Truck Series returns to Thompson with their stout list of competitors. The defending champion of the division is Duane Noll, who is always a top driver. He will be joined by a strong contingency of regulars for their feature. Ken Morin was the first driver to file a registration for the Icebreaker.

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. A total of 10 divisions will compete across two days of racing. Sunday's card features the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series with qualifying going green at 1:15pm. There's also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds.

Saturday's six-division card is highlighted by the season-opening Thompson 75 for the PASS North Super Late Models beginning at 1:00pm. They're joined by the Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 with all Icebreaker divisions welcome.

Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday and $35 for Sunday. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 each day. Advance tickets are available at https://happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track.

Speed51.TV is also offering a live pay-per-view broadcast for both days of the Icebreaker. Sign up at www.speed51.tv. PPV passes are $30 for Saturday-only, $35 for Sunday-only, and $55 for both days.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

The Thompson Late Models go 40 laps on Sunday, April 11 in the
first event eligible to earn points for the New England Late Model
Challenge Cup. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Two-time Modified Racing Series champion Chris Pasteryak (#75CT)
is one of those drivers with his sights set on the season-ending
Thompson 300. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Thompson Icebreaker 125
Just the Start of a
Big Outlaw Open Season

EVENT SCHEDULE FOR 47TH ICEBREAKER PDF

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE
-

ICEBREAKER 125 ENTRY LIST - TSMP - 4/11/21

Waterbury, VT & Naples, ME -- Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park is just over a week away from the annual Icebreaker. The 82nd season opener on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11 is headlined by the Icebreaker 125 for the new Outlaw Open Modified Series, pitting the region's Tour-type Modified stars in a $10,000-to-win showdown.

Noted open-wheel racers such as Doug Coby, Craig Lutz, Bobby Santos III, Jon McKennedy, and Matt Swanson are officially committed to the Icebreaker 125. The Sunday shootout is just the beginning, though. Six Outlaw Open Series events are planned for the 2021 season with big purses and even bigger action.

It culminates with the return of the Thompson 300. The $20,000-to-win event is part of the World Series of Speedway Racing on October 8-10. It's been 16 years since the late Ted Christopher won the last Thomson 300 in 2005. Not only is the Icebreaker 125 important in its own right, but it also starts preparations for an event that is hallowed in Modified lore.

"The Icebreaker is always the big opener in New England to get back going and get started racing again, so I'm definitely looking forward to that," two-time Modified Racing Series champion Chris Pasteryak said. "As for the season in general, the way I look at it is that the Thompson 300 is the biggest Modified race of the year. So the more laps we get at Thompson over the course of the year leading up to the 300, hopefully the better we can run in it."

In-between the Icebreaker 125 and the Thompson 300 are four $5,000-to-win Wednesday night shows on June 16, July 7, August 11, and September 15. The Wednesday dates make it easy for teams to tackle the Thompson high banks without weekly or touring series conflicts.

In the meantime, all eyes are on the Icebreaker showdown. The event is 125 green-flag laps with teams allowed to use eight tires. Racers have to be fast and use the right strategy to stand in Victory Lane.

"I love it," Oakdale, CT's Zachem said of the 125-lap distance. "It's a pit-stop race, so more or less, you are racing to halfway to figure out your pit stop situation. I'm looking forward to it. We've always run well over at Thompson."

It's definitely going to make a difference," Moosup, CT's Pasteryak added. "When you're counting caution laps and you get to 50 or 60 laps to go, you normally only count on getting about 35 of them under green. Whereas now when you get to 50 or 60 to go, there's still potentially a pretty long race left. And then you know that, if you have some tires left in the pit stall, or you want to try a strategy where you hold off and pit a little bit later, you know you're going to have that many laps to actually try and race your way back to the front and not just ride around behind the pace car to finish the day."

A total of 29 drivers have pre-entered the event, including Keith Rocco, Mike Christopher Jr., Eric Goodale, Andrew Krause, Patrick Emerling, and Jeff Gallup. The current entry list alone accounts for dozens of championships and hundreds of race wins. Several other teams have indicated they'll be there, setting up a stacked field with many potential winners.

The Outlaw Open Modified Series is the brainchild of PASS's Tom Mayberry and ACT's Cris Michaud, who are co-promoting the Thompson Speedway oval track events this season. The duo put on two events at Thompson in 2020 and have banded together to carry on the track's storied tradition.

Thompson Speedway opened in 1940 and was long known as the "Indianapolis of the East", attracting every notable name in motorsports. Even today, the track is revered among the racing community. Drivers such as Ryan Preece, Harrison Burton, Bobby Santos III, and Derek Griffith have used Thompson victories as a springboard to national opportunities.

"What Cris Michaud and Tom Mayberry have done for Thompson is huge," Zachem said. "Taking the chance last year to run the track, with everything going on with COVID...I started at the Little T Speedway in 2000 and everyone's dream is to run the big track one day and I made it there. It's really cool to see the track still going."

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. Ten local and regional series go green at the two-day racing festival. Sunday's card features the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series. There's also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds. Post time is 1:15pm.

Saturday's six-division card is highlighted by the Thompson 75 for the PASS North Super Late Models beginning at 1:00pm. They're joined by the Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 for all Icebreaker divisions.

Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday and $35 for Sunday. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 each day. Advance tickets are available at https://happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track.

Speed51.TV is also offering a live pay-per-view broadcast for both days of the Icebreaker. PPV passes are $29.99 for Saturday-only, $34.99 for Sunday-only, and $54.99 for both days. Sign up now at https://www.speed51.tv/products/ppv-2021-icebreaker-weekend-pass-at-thompson.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

The Icebreaker 125 is the first of six Outlaw Open Modified Series
events at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park this season.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

*Sat.-Sun. APRIL 10th & 11th*



The Thompson Speedway Icebreaker concludes with a bang as the Outlaw Open Modified Series races for a $10,000-to-win top prize. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)
*Modified Roar Returns to* *Thompson at Icebreaker* Sunoco Modifieds, SK Light Modifieds, Open Modifieds Back for Another Year
*EVENT SCHEDULE FOR 47TH ICEBREAKER PDF*
PURCHASE ICEBREAKER TICKETS HERE -
Story Courtesy of Souza Media - - Waterbury, VT -- When Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park comes alive for the Icebreaker April 10-11, the roar of Modified engines will once again hit the high-banks. The Sunoco Modifieds and SK Light Modifieds, Thompson's two local open-wheel divisions, are back for another year and will compete at all six events during the 2021 season. Each division provides a mix of veterans, rising stars and newcomers, but the Sunoco Modifieds have long been dominated by those with the most experience. If anyone is going to visit Victory Lane, they will have to knock-off eight-time Thompson champion Keith Rocco first. The Connecticut native and former NASCAR National Champion (2010) has the most titles in track history and sits inside the top-five in the track's all-time wins list. Rocco completed a clean sweep of the races held at the Connecticut oval in 2020 and is the favorite heading into a new year. Rocco has the last four titles, while Woody Pitkat, NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Preece and the late Ted Christopher are the only other champions in the last decade. However, there will be a strong contingent of drivers looking to take Rocco off the throne. The leaders of that list include Todd Owen and Troy Talman. Both drivers have previous victories at Thompson, and Owen has been Rocco's toughest competitor over the last few years. Owen went to Victory Lane in the 2019 World Series and has experience competing with Rocco at a high-level at multiple tracks in the same division. "Keith is a great competitor and definitely the one you want to beat on the track," Owen said. "I have a lot of respect for him both as a racer and as a person. I can't wait to battle him at Thompson, Stafford, and anywhere else we race against each other this year." Talman, who scored his first career Sunoco Modified Thompson win in 2017, has put his focus on competing at Thompson this season with his family-owned team. Early Sunoco Modified entries for the season also include former winner Danny Cates, Jonathan Puleo, Noah Korner and others. A strong field is expected to open the season as part of Icebreaker Saturday on April 10 with a 30-lap feature. Throughout the season, some of the top modified drivers from the region will compete in the competitive class. As part of the Sunday, April 11 race day, the SK Light Modifieds kick-off their season with a 25-lap feature. Last year, it was John O'Sullivan and Josh Carey who went to Victory Lane, with Carey's victory marking his first career. The SK Light Modified division is known for giving drivers a step-ladder to get to the Sunoco Modifieds, but also as a place where veterans can compete at a more affordable cost. O'Sullivan is one of the early drivers committing to race, while he's joined by names like Steve Kenneway, Glenn Korner, George Bessette Jr. and Albert "Bert" Ouellette. Bessette is a former Street Stock champion at Stafford Motor Speedway, who made the jump to full-time SK Light action in 2020. Watch closely for Paul "Buddy" Charette, who finished second in the World Series feature in 2020 and is looking forward to returning to compete at a high level. Charette is a former Late Model competitor at Thompson, and the switch to the Modifieds brought him to New Smyrna Speedway this past February to compete in the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing. He seems primed and ready to go. "We are very lucky to have teamed up with some amazing sponsors to run the SK Light Modified division at Thompson with the Polar Beverages No. 28," Charette said. "Thompson Speedway has always been one of our favorite tracks. We're excited to have partnered with Complete Chassis Solutions to create a strong team with the goal of winning races." Registration for Thompson local divisions is open and will remain open throughout the season. Registration forms can be found at thompsonspeedway.com/competitor-info-0. Marked as the third Modified race of the weekend, the Outlaw Open Modified Series debuts at the Icebreaker with a 125-lap, $10,000 to win event on Sunday, April 11. The entry list for the big-money race includes the top stars in asphalt Modified racing including six-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Doug Coby and fellow tour title-holders Ron Silk and Bobby Santos III. Two-time Stafford Motor Speedway SK Modified champion Ronnie Williams, reigning World Series Bud Modified Open winner Mike Christopher Jr., Matt Swanson, Patrick Emerling, Eric Goodale, Chris Pasteryak, Jon McKennedy and more are also on the list. Fans won't want to miss some of the top talent in the region competing to close out the opener of the New England racing season. The Outlaw Open Modified Series season will also include four Wednesday night races on June 16, July 7, August 11 and September 15, worth $5,000 to the winner. The return of the Thompson 300, worth $20,000-to-win, will be part of the annual World Series of Racing on October 8-10. Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. A total of 10 divisions will compete across two days of racing. Sunday's card features the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series with qualifying going green at 1:15pm. There's also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds. Saturday's six-division card is highlighted by the season-opening Thompson 75 for the PASS North Super Late Models. They're joined by the Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open with a 1:00pm post time. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 with all Icebreaker divisions welcome. Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday and $35 for Sunday. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 each day. Advance tickets are available at https://happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track. For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour. For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens. For general Thompson Speedway inquiries and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

The Sunoco Modifieds have a 30-lap feature on Saturday, April 10 as part of the annual Icebreaker at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Sat.-Sun. APRIL 10th & 11th

Several top racers from outside "Modified Country" have accepted the
challenge of the Icebreaker 125, including Center Conway, NH's Andy
Shaw (#66). (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Thompson Icebreaker 125
Entry List Continues to Grow

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE

ICEBREAKER 125 ENTRY LIST - TSMP - 4/11/21

Waterbury, VT and Naples, ME -- Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park is just over three weeks away from opening the 2021 Northeast Auto Racing season with the annual Icebreaker. The headlining $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 on Sunday, April 11 continues to draw buzz and big names as the entry list grows leading up to the event.

Nearly 30 Tour-type Modified teams have registered for the debut of the Outlaw Open Modified Series. Even more are expected by the time the first green flag falls for qualifying. The list includes former track and series champions, many multi-time winners, and rising stars looking to start the season with a bang.

To no one's surprise, a huge contingent of racers from the "Modified Country" of Southern New England have entered. Former NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champions Doug Coby of Milford, CT; Bobby Santos III of Franklin, MA; and Ronnie Silk of Norwalk, CT are among the biggest names preparing for the season-opener.

Other touring series champions on the entry list are Chelmsford, MA's Jon McKennedy; Moosup, CT's Chris Pasteryak; and Woborn, MA's Anthony Nocella. Although NASCAR Cup Series regular Ryan Preece has not officially entered the Icebreaker, he has publicly expressed his interest in competing.

Seven-time Thompson Speedway champion Keith Rocco (#57CT) is
one of many big-name locals eager for the first event in the Outlaw
Open Modified Series. (Daniel Holben photo)

-
Plenty of weekly Modified warriors are also ready for the long-distance challenge. They include Berlin, CT's Keith Rocco, a seven-time Thompson Speedway champion, and Tolland, CT's Ronnie Williams, a two-time SK Modified champion at Stafford Motor Speedway. With 125 green-flag laps on the card, many factors will play into who ultimately takes home the big check.

"I think you're going to see a lot of different strategies in this type of race," Williams said. "I think a lot of guys will be pushing hard in the early laps of the race. It's the start of a new season, and a lot of guys haven't raced yet. I'm expecting a strong run out there. The No. 25 with Gary Casella always runs well at Thompson."

"You just have to play your cards right with all of the pit strategy and 125 laps that are all green flag laps," Rocco added. "Fuel is probably going to play a role in it for this one, too. There are a lot of aspects that are going to be part of trying to win the race. We always do really well in the open shows, from the SK Modifieds to the Tour Modifieds. Hopefully, we'll come out of the box strong to start the season."

However, the hunger for victory isn't just limited to Connecticut and Massachusetts. Racers from six different Northeast states already entered the Icebreaker 125, giving the event a regional flavor that speaks to its appeal among the Modified ranks.

New Hampshire racers Andy Shaw (Center Conway) and Trevor Bleau (Troy) live in an area typically dominated by Late Model-type cars. However, they're ready to make Modifieds the Granite State headliner for at least one day. Riverhead, NY's Eric Goodale is one of several drivers who are expected to do double-duty with the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour event at Virginia's Martinsville Speedway. Goodale's fellow Long Islander Artie Peterson III is also representing the Empire State.

Anthony Sesely is making the trip to Thompson from Port Monmouth, NJ. Earl Paules has an even long drive from Palmerton, PA. Patrick Emerling has the current "long haul" award, though, with a 432-mile journey each way from Orchard Park, NY to drive Ted Anderson's #1CT.

The Icebreaker 125 is the first event in the new Outlaw Open Modified Series. A quartet of $5,000-to-win Wednesday events are scheduled for June 16, July 7, August 11, and September 15. The season concludes with the return of the Thompson 300, a $20,000-to-win event on October 9 and 10 as part of the annual World Series of Speedway Racing.

Drivers can still register for the Icebreaker 125. Outlaw Open Modified Series entry forms and rules are available at www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds. General event Information can be found at www.acttour.com/thompson-speedway.

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. A total of 10 divisions will compete across two days of racing. Sunday's card features the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Outlaw Open Modified Series. There's also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model shootout plus the Limited Sportsman and SK Light Modifieds.

Saturday's six-division card is highlighted by the season-opening Thompson 75 for the PASS North Super Late Models. They're joined by the Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 with all Icebreaker divisions welcome.

Adult general admission is $30 for Saturday and $35 for Sunday. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 each day. Advance tickets are available at https://happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID-19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at the track.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquires and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

Six-Race Oval Track 2021 Event Schedule

The Thompson Late Models are racing for a $1,200 winner's purse
and more than $7,000 in total awards at the Icebreaker.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Purse Structure Announced For Thompson Weekly Divisions
More Than $23,000 in Posted Awards Per Event
Set Between Five Divisions For 2021

EVENT SCHEDULE FOR 47TH ICEBREAKER PDF

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE
-

(Story courtesy of Souza Media) Waterbury, VT and Naples, ME -- American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Star Series (PASS) officials have announced the purse structure for the five weekly divisions set for competition at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park in 2021.

A total of nearly $24,000 in posted awards have been set to be distributed to the Sunoco Modifieds, Late Models, SK Light Modifieds, Limited Sportsman, and Mini Stocks at each event. All five divisions will compete as part of the six-race oval track event schedule at Thompson, which begins with the annual Icebreaker on April 10-11. The schedule also includes four Wednesday night races in the summer (June 16, July 7, August 11 & September 15) and the Sunoco World Series (October 8-10).

"When Tom (Mayberry) and I agreed to take on this role at Thompson, one of our priorities was posting a fair purse for all divisions," ACT managing partner Cris Michaud said. "I raced for 20+ years, and I experienced firsthand the value of an extra dollar. We've put together a competitive structure that rewards everyone who shows up and will help teams get their cars to the track."

The roar of the Sunoco Modifieds will return to the high-banks with drivers chasing a $1,500 winning prize for their 30-lap feature races. With $900 on the line for second, $600 for third and $200 to start each race, the Sunoco Modified purse itself rises over $8,500. Some of the top names in local Modified racing are expected to compete, including Keith Rocco, who looks to continue his dominance of the competitive class on Thompson's 0.625-mile oval. Other names expected for the opener include Troy Talman, a former Thompson winner.

The Late Models, which will again follow ACT Tour rules -- including the addition of the new Hoosier tire -- will chase $1,200 to win. As part of a purse better than $7,000 throughout the field, Late Model drivers will open the season with a 40-lap special at the Icebreaker. They will continue to thrill Thompson fans with some of the top competitors from across New England. Names like Woody Pitkat, who swept both races in 2020, along with Nick Johnson, defending ACT Tour Rookie of the Year Derek Gluchacki and more will be in competition.

The Limited Sportsman are set to return with a purse over $3,000 of their own and $350 on the line to win. Known as one of the most exciting divisions at Thompson each year, the Limited Sportsman keep fans on the edge of their seat with two, and often three-wide action throughout the field.

Early entries for the season include former Thompson champions Kyle Gero and Larry Barnett, along with former Seekonk Speedway Sportsman champion Corey Fanning. At the Icebreaker, Limited Sportsman drivers may also take the opportunity to compete in a 8-Cylinder Open Street Stock open on Saturday, which pays $1,000 to win.
-

The winner of each Sunoco Modified event at Thompson
Speedway this year will receive a minimum of $1,500.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

-
Rising over $3,000, the SK Light Modified purse includes another $350 to win, with $250 for second and a strong distribution of funds throughout the field. As a division that puts some of the youth of Modified racing and veterans together, it's expected to be another stout year.

The Mini Stock thunder will return to Thompson with feature races set for $200 to win and over $1,600 in presented awards. Early entries for the season include Thompson veterans Russ Barboza, Tommy Silva and former division champion Steve Michalski.

Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park opens its 82nd season of oval track racing with the Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. The 10-division card includes the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series, the PASS Super Late Models, and five Thompson weekly divisions. The 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open, NEMA Lites, and EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge round out the card. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 with all Icebreaker divisions welcome.

Advance sale tickets for both days are available at www.happsnow.com/event/Thompson-Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. Grandstand attendance is limited to 50% capacity due to COVID-19 guidelines.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit acttour.com. You can also find updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Star Series on Facebook, follow them on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park inquires, and camping reservations for the Icebreaker, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

The Thompson Limited Sportsmen have a $350 winner's purse at
each event -- and they can also go for $1,000 prize in the Icebreaker's
Street Stock Open. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

The $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 wraps of the 47th Icebreaker
Weekend at Thompson Speedway on Sunday, April 11.
(Daniel Holben/Big D's Photo)

Event Schedule Announced
for 47th Icebreaker

EVENT SCHEDULE FOR 47TH ICEBREAKER PDF

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE

Waterbury, VT -- The American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) have announced the schedule of events and ticketing information for the 47th Icebreaker at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on April 10 and 11. The 10-division card is highlighted by the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series plus other top local and regional classes.

In a shift from previous years, all 10 of the divisions competing on Icebreaker weekend will have a "one-day" format. Six divisions have their qualifying and features on Saturday, April 10 with the Icebreaker 125 and remaining divisions set for Sunday, April 11. While teams may attend the Friday Test N' Tune and other practice opportunities during the weekend, they can also practice, qualify, and race in a single day if they choose.

The Pro All Stars Series (PASS) Super Late Models, EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Sunoco Modifieds, 8-Cylinder Street Stock Open, NEMA Lite Midgets, and Mini Stocks will qualify and race on Saturday, April 10. The Outlaw Open Modified Series, Late Models, Limited Sportsmen, and SK Light Modifieds are slated for Sunday, April 11. Separate general admission tickets will be sold for each day.

Post time is 1:00pm for Saturday's card and 1:15pm on Sunday. The optional Test N' Tune on Friday, April 9 goes from 11:00am to 5:00pm. All local and state health and safety mandates will be in effect throughout the weekend.

"We think this schedule format is in everyone's best interests," ACT managing partner Cris Michaud said. "The one-day race format accommodates teams have other things going on in their lives and simply aren't able to make it to the track for an entire weekend. Fans also won't have to buy a ticket for both days if they can only attend one of them. It gives people more flexibility so they can enjoy as much racing as they want."

"This format is a significant money-saver for teams," PASS president Tom Mayberry added. "With qualifying and features on the same day, that's one fewer night of hotels and other expenses that traveling teams have to pay for. Those costs can add up fast, and we don't want teams to burn through a big chunk of their budget at the first race. It sets them up so they can potentially go to more races throughout the year."

Adult admission for the Icebreaker is $30 on Saturday and $35 on Sunday. Kids ages 12 and under are $10 both days. Grandstand attendance is currently limited to 25% of capacity per the latest Connecticut state guidelines. ACT and PASS are monitoring the guidelines for any potential updates before race weekend. Advance ticket sales will begin by week's end. Visit www.thompsonspeedway.com/reservations to reserve a camping spot.

With more than a month remaining before the Icebreaker 125, the entry list is already full of the top names in tour-type Modified racing. It's shaping up as a big-time start to the six-event series that includes the return of the Thompson 300 on October 9-10.

Former NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champions Doug Coby, Bobby Santos III, and Ronnie Silk have officially committed to chase the $10,000 top prize. So have former Modified Racing Series champions Jon McKennedy, Anthony Nocella, and Chris Pasteryak. Other notable drivers on the entry list include Keith Rocco, Eric Goodale, Richard Savary, and Ronnie Williams.
-

The PASS Super Late Models headline the Saturday, April 10 portion
of the Icebreaker with the 75-lap PASS North season opener.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

The PASS Super Late Models headline the Saturday program with a 75-lap main event. PASS has been a part of every Icebreaker since 2016. This year's event is the opener of both the PASS North and Northern Series championships. The NEMA Lite Midgets and EXIT Realty Pro Trucks are returning for another Icebreaker while the $1,000-to-win Street Stock Open was recently added after a wildly successful outing at the most recent World Series of Speedway Racing.

ACT and PASS officials have also added bonus laps for many of the local divisions. The Late Models will run a 40-lap feature on Sunday while the Sunoco Modifieds go 30 laps on Saturday. Both the Limited Sportsmen and SK Light Modifieds have 25-lap Sunday features with the 4-cylinder Mini Stocks slated for 20 laps as part of the Saturday card. The Late Model feature is the first event in the ACT New England Late Model Challenge Cup, a region-wide series for weekly teams at eligible tracks.

The Icebreaker 125 and Thompson 300 entry forms, along with the rules for the Outlaw Open Modified Series, are available at www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds. The early-entry deadlines for the Icebreaker is March 15. Information about the local division and Open Street Stock rules is online at www.acttour.com/thompson-speedway.

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season of oval track racing with the 47th Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. The 10-division card includes the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series, the PASS Super Late Models, and eight other divisions. An optional Test N' Tune practice day is slated for Friday, April 9 with all Icebreaker divisions welcome. Grandstand attendance is limited to 25% of capacity.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquires and camping reservations, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

(Alan Ward/Big Al's Photos)

Six-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Doug Coby (#10) and two-time Modified Racing Series Champion Chris Pasteryak (#75) are among the stars who
have already registered for both the Icebreaker 125 and Thompson 300.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Outlaw Open Entry Lists Loading Up
for Icebreaker, Thompson 300

Waterbury, VT and Naples, ME -- The Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park oval is shaping up as the place to watch the biggest stars of Tour-Type Modified Racing in 2021. Entry lists for both the Icebreaker 125 on April 10/11 and the return of the Thompson 300 on October 9/10 are already loaded with local, regional, and even national open-wheel racing headliners.

As the first and last events of the season at the historic Connecticut track, both the Icebreaker and the Thompson 300 are expected to be the year's two greatest shows. The early entries back up these expectations with a mix of touring series champions, track champions, and big-time winners in the Modified ranks. With so many top drivers ready for action, the buzz that has surrounded the events for months will only get louder.

Leading the roll call is six-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Doug Coby of Milford, CT. The modern Modified legend has filed entries for both the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 and the $20,000-to-win Thompson 300. Coby will compete at the Icebreaker in the #20CT Modified Rick Czarnecki. For the Thompson 300, he will be behind the wheel of his own Doug Coby Racing #10CT car that debuted in 2020.

Coby is one of multiple drivers planning to do double-duty with the Icebreaker and the NASCAR Modified Tour event at Virginia's Martinsville Speedway on April 8. Another is multi-time NASCAR Modified and Modified Racing Series (MRS) winner Eric Goodale of Riverhead, NY. Goodale, who is currently competing in the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at Florida's New Smyrna Speedway, is looking forward to keeping the Thompson Modified tradition alive.

"I love racing at Thompson," Goodale said. "It's one of my favorite tracks. I'm excited to do it. The thought to go into a Modified season and not have a Modified race at Thompson would be a bit disturbing. This is the stuff I grew up on, and I'm finally getting to live it everyday. I'll be leaving Martinsville, heading home, switching the car over and heading right to Thompson for a double-header weekend."

Several other notable names have already joined Coby in committing early to both the Icebreaker 125 and Thompson 300. Multi-time Thompson Speedway champion and former NASCAR Weekly Racing Series national champion Keith Rocco of Berlin, CT will be gunning for the two five-figure first prizes in his familiar #57CT. So will former Modified Racing Series (MRS) and International Supermodified Association (ISMA) champion Jonathan McKennedy of Chelmsford, MA. Others who beat the crowd with their entries include 2011 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Ron Silk, two-time MRS champion Chris Pasteryak, and recent MRS winner Ronnie Williams.

(Jim Dupont photo)

Modern-day Modified legend Bobby Santos III will return to the cockpit of the
Tinio Racing #44 at the Icebreaker 125. (Jim Dupont photo)

The Icebreaker entry list alone, meanwhile, is nearing two dozen names with two months still to go before the event. One driver that everyone will have their eyes on is Franklin, MA's Bobby Santos III. Santos has become the dean of big-money open-wheel events in recent years, winning everything from the Musket 250 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway to the Little 500 at Indiana's Anderson Speedway. At the Icebreaker 125, Santos will be in the cockpit of the #44MA Tinio Racing car he has piloted to 11 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour victories.

Other high-profile names preparing for the Icebreaker 125 are MRS champion Anthony Nocella, recent World Series Modified Open winner Mike Christopher Jr., many-time Modified winner Richard Savary, and former Pro-4 Modified standout Derek Robbie. While their Thompson plans remain to be seen beyond the Icebreaker, a good start could certainly spur them to attend more of the planned big-money events.

The Icebreaker 125 is the opener of the new Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series for 2021. The six-race series includes the annual Icebreaker, the Thompson 300 as part of the World Series of Speedway Racing, and four Wednesday night events held between June and September. The Wednesday events will pay a minimum of $5,000 to win; meanwhile, the Icebreaker and Thompson 300 have guaranteed top prizes of $10,000 and $20,000, respectively. All told, more than $250,000 in purse money will be posted at these six races.

The Icebreaker 125 and Thompson 300 entry forms, along with the rules for the Outlaw Open Modified Series, have been posted at www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds. The early-entry deadlines are March 15 for the Icebreaker 125 and April 15 for the Thompson 300. More information about the series will be released throughout the season.

Thompson Speedway opens its 82nd season with the 46th Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11. The Icebreaker 125 is part of a nine-division that also includes all of Thompson's local divisions plus the Pro All Stars Series Super Late Models, NEMA Lites, and EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge.

The full event schedule and ticketing info will be announced in the coming weeks. All local and state health and safety guidelines are in effect.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquires, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

Eric Goodale (#58) is one of the racers planning a doubleheader with the Icebreaker 125 at Thompson Speedway and the NASCAR Modified Tour event at Martinsville Speedway. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

Keith Rocco (#57) and Mike Christopher Jr. (#7NY) are two of the many
big names that are filling up the entry list for the Icebreaker 125.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

ACT, PASS Announce Division Line-Up
for 46th Thompson Icebreaker
Icebreaker 125 Entry List Brimming with Big Names

PURCHASE ICEBREAKER
TICKETS HERE

Waterbury, VT and Naples, ME -- American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) officials have announced the slate of racing for the 46th Thompson Icebreaker on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday April 11. The 82nd season opener at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park currently consists of a nine-division card highlighted by the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series.

The event marks the return of the historic season kick-off after a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Icebreaker was first held in 1974 and has become a staple of the Northeast motorsports calendar. It includes two days of racing with an optional Test N' Tune on Friday, April 9.

All five of Thompson Speedway's local divisions join the Outlaw Open Modified Series on the card. This includes the Sunoco Modifieds, ACT-type Late Models, Limited Sportsmen/8-cylinder Street Stocks, SK Light Modifieds, and Mini Stocks. Laps for each division are to be determined. The purses for these divisions will be similar to those at the Thompson Speedway events ACT and PASS promoted in 2020.
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The PASS Super Late Models headline the Saturday card at the
Thompson Speedway Icebreaker on April 10-11.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)

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The PASS Super Late Models headline the Saturday portion of Icebreaker Weekend with a 75-lap event. It is the fifth straight Icebreaker featuring PASS, joining the 2016-2019 editions. PASS holds their first event of the year in the Northeast after opening the season with a pair of events at North Carolina's Hickory Motor Speedway.

The NEMA Lites of the Northeastern Midget Association, who are longtime Thompson Speedway supporters, return for another showing at the Icebreaker. The EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge rounds out the card. Both series were slated to be part of the 2020 Icebreaker before its cancellation.

Officials are finalizing the full schedule for each day. More information regarding schedules, pricing, and ticketing will be announced over the coming weeks.

"We have something for everyone at the Icebreaker," PASS president Tom Mayberry said. "It's important to start the season with a bang, and we've put together a line-up to do just that. We know a lot of people are looking forward to the Outlaw Open Modified Series debut, but there's plenty of other action planned for fans of both open-wheel and full-fender racing."

Entries are already pouring in for the 125-lap Outlaw Open main event. Two of the biggest names on the list are Franklin, MA's Bobby Santos III and Milford, CT's Doug Coby. Santos has posted four career Tour-type Modified victories at Thompson Speedway and six at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He recently triumphed in the famed Little 500 for Sprint Cars at Indiana's Anderson Speedway. Coby is a six-time champion of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour with six victories at Thompson.

Other notable Modified standouts on the early entry list include former Modified Racing Series and , International Supermodified Association Champion Jon McKennedy, former NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series National Champion Keith Rocco, 2011 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion Ronnie Silk, and Mike Christopher Jr., the winner of the Budweiser Modified Open at last October's World Series of Speedway Racing. They'll be joined by Northeast household names such as Matt Swanson, Eric Goodale, Andy Shaw, Carl Medeiros Jr., and Dan Meservey.

A limited amount of garage stalls are still available for Icebreaker weekend. These will be awarded to Outlaw Open Modified Series competitors in the order their entries are received.

The Icebreaker 125 is the opener of the new Outlaw Open Modified Series. The six-pack of big-money events concludes with the $20,000-to-win Thompson 300 on October 9 and 10 as part of the 59th World Series of Speedway Racing. In between are four 75-lap events on Wednesday nights throughout the summer that will pay a minimum of $5,000-to-win. Rules, entry forms, and other information for the Outlaw Open Modified Series is available at www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds or www.racedayct.com/thompson2021.

For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com
or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour.

For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

For general Thompson Speedway inquires, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

The Sunoco Modifieds are one of five local divisions opening their
season at the 46th Thompson Speedway Icebreaker.
(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)




(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)
Entry Form Released for Return of Thompson 300 More than $100,000 in Projected Awards for this Historic Event
*THOMPSON 300 ENTRY FORM 10/10/21 PDF*
Waterbury, VT -- The American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) have released the official entry form for the Thompson 300 at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on October 9-10. More than $100,000 in projected awards are posted for the return of the historic event as part of the 59th World Series of Speedway Racing. As previously announced, the 300-lap event will pay the winner a guaranteed minimum of $20,000. Second place receives $7,500 with $5,000 for third. Everyone who takes the green flag will bring home at least $1,200. Thirty-six starting positions have been posted with a total of $85,475 in base purse money. Lap money is also up for grabs. Every lap sold will award $50 to the driver who leads that lap. This means up to $15,000 in lap money and the Thompson 300 winner could pocket up to $35,000 total. A Last Chance "B" Feature has been posted as well. This final round qualifier will pay $1,000 to win and $250 to start for teams that do not transfer into the Thompson 300. "The Thompson 300 is one of the most famous events in Modified racing," ACT managing partner Cris Michaud said. "When Tom Mayberry and I reached out agreement to promote events at Thompson Speedway, Tom's first idea was to bring back the Thompson 300. Together, we've put a lot of work into figuring out how to make it happen. We're already excited even with the date still nearly nine months away. It's going to be a must-see event this year and hopefully for years to come." The entry form has been posted at www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds. Teams that register by Thursday, April 15 receive an early-entry discount. The first 26 teams that register will also receive a garage stall for World Series weekend. Qualifying for the Thompson 300 is scheduled for Saturday, October 9 with the 300-lap main event on Sunday, October 10. An optional practice session is planned for Friday, October 8. More information will be announced over the coming months. All schedules are subject to change. This year's Thompson 300 is the first time the event has been held since 2005. Previous winners include Northeast racing legends Richie Evans, Geoffrey Bodine, Ron Bouchard, Jimmy Spencer, Mike Stefanik, Steve Park, Mike McLaughlin, and Ted Christopher. The return of the Thompson 300 is the finale in the six-race Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series. The opener of the series is the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 on April 10 and 11. Some of the top names in Tour-Type Modified racing have already entered the Icebreaker event, including Keith Rocco, Doug Coby, Bobby Santos III, Ron Silk, Mike Christopher Jr., and Jon McKennedy. The series also includes $5,000-to-win events on June 16, July 7, August 11, and September 15. Teams that attempt to qualify for all six Outlaw Open Modified Series events will be eligible for provisional starting spots in the Thompson 300. The number of available provisionals is to be determined. The rules for the Outlaw Open Modified Series have been posted at www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds. Contact Greg Felton at (413) 695-2272 or gt.felton@gmail.com with any Modified tech questions. For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour. For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens. For general Thompson Speedway inquires, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

(Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)




The Open Modified events at the Icebreaker and Northeast Classic will largely follow the same rules as the Tri-Track Open Modified Series. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)
*ACT & PASS Release Updated Information* *for Icebreaker and Northeast Classic*
Waterbury, VT -- The American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) have released the latest round of information for the Thompson Speedway Icebreaker on April 9-11 and the New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) Northeast Classic on April 17. Both events are expected to attract some of the biggest, most talented fields of the year as they kick off the 2020 New England racing season. As part of the updates, ACT and PASS also have created a new Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series information page. Teams and fans can visit www.acttour.com/outlaw-open-modifieds for the latest about all six of the big-money events, including the 46th Annual Icebreaker and the $20,000-to-win Thompson 300. This page will be updated throughout the year. The Northeast Classic also has an information page at www.acttour.com/northeast-late-model-classic. The biggest piece of the puzzle now available is the complete Tour-Type Open Modified rules. The Icebreaker is headlined by a 125-lap, $10,000-to-win Outlaw Open event. The inaugural Northeast Classic includes a 50-lap, $5,000-to-win Modified Open. Both events will largely follow the Tri-Track Modified Open Series rulebook. Tour-Type Modified cars must follow the 2021 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, Race of Champions, Modified Racing Series, or Weekly track rules. Certain exceptions are outlined in a PDF on the series information page. Rules may not be combined between series. SK Modified-legal cars may also compete using any carburetor. A gear rule will also be in place for the Outlaw Open Series and Northeast Classic. The Thompson events require a 4.64 gear for built engines and a 4.52 gear for spec engines. At NHMS, built engines must use a 3.98 maximum and 3.74 minimum gear. The range for spec engines is a 3.83 maximum and 3.63 minimum. No restrictor plate will be required at either track. Greg Felton, the Head of Race Tech for the Tri-Track Open Modified Series, will serve in the same rule for the Open Modified events at both Thompson and NHMS. He can be reached at (413) 695-2272 or gt.felton@gmail.com with any Modified tech questions. The Open Modified entry form for the Northeast Classic has also been released. It can be found on the official Northeast Classic page at www.acttour.com/northeast-late-model-classic. The 50-lap event will pay $5,000 to win and $600 to start with almost $29,000 in posted awards. Teams that enter by Thursday, April 1 receive a discount on their entry fee. The entry form for the $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125, which opens the Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series, was recently released and can be found on the series information page. More than a dozen drivers had already entered the event at press time, including six-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Doug Coby, multi-time Thompson Speedway champion Keith Rocco, 2020 World Series Modified Open winner Mike Christopher Jr., and four-time Modified Racing Series champion Jon McKennedy. The first 26 teams that file entries will receive a garage stall for the weekend. More information about the rest of the weekend's like-up is expected soon. Finally, ACT and PASS have released the rules and entry form for the 8-cylinder Street Stock Open at the Northeast Classic. The rules are nearly identical to what was originally planned in 2020, with the only change being that a 3.73 maximum gear is required. The 25-lap Street Stock Open will pay $1,000 to win with a total purse of more than $7,500. For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour. For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

The rules and entry form have been released for the $1,000-to-win Street Stock Open at the Northeast Classic. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)



Six big-money Tour-type Modified events are now planned at Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park for the 2021 season as part of the Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo) -
ACT & PASS Announce Outlaw Open Modified Series for Thompson in 2021 $20,000-to-Win Thompson 300 Highlights 6-Event Oval Track Schedule
TOUR-TYPE MODS ENTRY FORM - THOMPSON - 4/11/21
Thompson, CT -- The high banks of Connecticut's Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park will roar once again in 2021. American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) have announced a six-event schedule for the coming season that features the new Thompson Outlaw Open Modified Series. The Outlaw Open Series consists of half a dozen high-paying events for Tour-type Modifieds that are expected to attract the top teams in the region. The series begins at the 46th annual Thompson Icebreaker from Friday, April 9 to Sunday, April 11. A 125-green-flag-lap, $10,000-to-win Outlaw Open Series event will highlight the weekend card. The stakes get even higher at the season-sending 59th Annual Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing from Friday, October 8 to Sunday, October 10. ACT and PASS have organized the return of the historic Thompson 300, which was last contested in 2005. A $20,000 minimum prize has been posted for the winner of the 300-lap showdown. In addition, ACT and PASS are selling $50 lap sponsorships for the Thompson 300. All laps that are sold will award the full $50 to the leader of that lap. This means a driver could earn up to $35,000 that weekend. Four other events are scheduled in-between the Icebreaker and World Series. The additional race dates are Wednesday, June 16; Wednesday, July 7; Wednesday, August 11; and Wednesday, September 8. These dates were chosen to minimize conflict with other tracks and series in the region, allowing teams and fans to attend as many events as they wish. The Outlaw Open Series features at the Wednesday events will pay at least $5,000-to-win and potentially more. Furthermore, drivers and teams that attempt to qualify for all six events will be eligible for potential provisional starting spots at the Thompson 300. "We think the Outlaw Open Modified Series is going to be huge for teams and fans," ACT managing partner Cris Michaud said. "The open-event model for the Modifieds has gotten a lot of traction in recent years, and we got to see it first-hand at the most recent World Series. We're especially excited for the return of the Thompson 300. Somebody will be walking away with at least $20,000 that weekend, and it's going to take the intensity to a whole other level." Thompson Speedway's local divisions will also be part of all six events, including the Sunoco Modifieds, Late Models, Limited Sportsmen/Street Stocks, SK Light Modifieds, and Mini Stocks. Although details are still being finalized, ACT and PASS officials hope to organize special events for the local divisions throughout the summer, giving each class a chance in the spotlight. A variety of touring series and open shows will also be part of the Icebreaker and World Series weekends. More information regarding all events will be announced over the coming weeks. "The most important part of all of this is that Thompson oval track racing will continue," PASS owner Tom Mayberry said. "We were very satisfied with how the Thompson 150 and World Series went in 2020, and those events showed the appetite is still there for racing in eastern Connecticut. With those events to build on, we think the excitement for Thompson Speedway is going to be even bigger in 2021. For more information about the American-Canadian Tour, contact the ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. You can also get updates on Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour. For technical information concerning all PASS divisions, and for media or marketing questions, please contact passracing@roadrunner.com. Don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens. For general Thompson Speedway inquires, call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thompsonspeedway.com, or visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. You can follow Thompson Speedway on Facebook and Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

All of Thompson Speedway's local divisions, including the ACT-type Late Models, will be part of the six-event schedule with details to be announced. (Matthew Wiernasz/WWLP22 News photo)